08/25/2026
The first few hours with your newborn come with plenty of bonding, but they also bring a series of choices about standard hospital screenings and procedures. Knowing what to expect lets you feel calm and in charge of your baby's care.
Here is a quick breakdown:
Vitamin K Injection: Newborns are born with naturally low levels of Vitamin K, which is needed for blood clotting. This injection is given shortly after birth to prevent a rare but serious condition called Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding (VKDB).
Erythromycin Eye Ointment: An antibiotic ointment applied to baby's eyes within the first hours after birth to prevent bacterial eye infections, specifically gonorrhea or chlamydia passed during delivery.
Hepatitis B Vaccine: The first dose of the Hep B series, typically offered within the first 12 to 24 hours of life to protect against liver infection.
Newborn Heel Prick (Metabolic Screening): A quick prick on baby’s heel to collect a few drops of blood on special paper, screening for rare genetic, hormonal, and metabolic conditions.
Bilirubin Screening: A gentle light sensor placed on baby's forehead or chest (or a heel prick blood test) to check bilirubin levels and monitor for jaundice before discharge.
Hearing Screening: A non-invasive test using tiny, soft earphones and sensors to check how baby’s ears and brain respond to sound, usually done while baby rests.
Circumcision: A surgical procedure to remove the fo****in from the p***s. This is an elective, non-emergency procedure that can be performed in the hospital or at an outpatient clinic.
Every single procedure is your choice!
As the parent, you have the right to ask questions, weigh the benefits, delay procedures for golden hour bonding, or decline based on your preferences.
Ask your doula for evidence-based information on each procedure during pregnancy so you can make fully informed, confident decisions for your baby.
Save this post for your third trimester, and leave any questions below.
